Category: Sponsorship

by Abhishek Shukla

PUMA & Delhi Capitals come together to deepen engagement in city’s cricket fandom

Bangalore, February 16, 2024: PUMA India has joined forces with Delhi Capitals to engage in the city’s strong fanbase and tap into the growing pool of sporting talent in the region.

PUMA’s multi-year partnership with Delhi Capitals as their official kit partner ahead of the year’s high-powered WPL and IPL season furthers its footprint in the cricketing landscape. 

Commenting on this historic collaboration, Karthik Balagopalan, Managing Director, PUMA India said, “We are thrilled to partner with Delhi Capitals and begin our association with the young vibrant team. Delhi is emerging as a huge magnet to sporting talent with an inimitable fanbase that has a pulse on the city’s soul and local culture. As a brand, PUMA has continuously championed cricket across levels, and this alliance underscores our commitment towards building the future generation of cricket as well as strong sports merchandising assets. We believe in the power of cricket to unite people, ignite aspirations and are here to push cricket & cricket culture forward.”

PUMA’s association with Royal Challengers Bangalore has proven to be a big success in the league.

Jemimah Rodrigues, cricketer and Delhi Capitals’ Vice Captain said, “We’re excited to have PUMA, a brand that’s shown tremendous commitment towards women’s sports, on board with the Delhi Capitals team. We’re thrilled for them to be a part of our journey as we look ahead to another smash-hit season of the Women’s Premier League.”

As kit partner, PUMA’s logo will be present on the leading arm of the jersey of both the men’s and women’s teams of Delhi Capitals. Inspired by the pulse of the country’s capital, the jersey incorporates the route map of the Delhi Metro Rail – the iconic representation of the city’s enterprising spirit. The players’ kit will also comprise training wear, accessories, travel gear and athleisure, capturing the same design aesthetic as the jersey.

This partnership also reinforces the long-standing relationship between PUMA and Delhi Capital’s parent company JSW through the sports brand’s association with Bengaluru Football Club. 

Commenting on the occasion, Sukhvinder Singh, interim CEO, Delhi Capitals, said, “Delhi Capitals is beyond thrilled to partner with PUMA for both our women’s and men’s squads. Being a franchise that focusses on young cricketing talent has always been crucial for us, which makes our association with a youth brand like PUMA an organic one. We’re confident that this partnership which kicks off with the upcoming seasons of the Women’s Premier League & the Indian Premier League is going to be a cracking success.”

Over the years, PUMA has forged partnerships with diverse sporting teams, encompassing global and Indian football giants such as Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Mumbai City FC, and Bengaluru FC, as well as the both the teams of Royal Challengers Bangalore. The brand also boasts a star-studded lineup of brand ambassadors featuring batting icon Virat Kohli, champion sprinter Usain Bolt, football stars Neymar Jr and Sunil Chhetri, celebrated boxer MC Mary Kom, and cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur and Mohammed Shami.

Additionally, PUMA has demonstrated its commitment to support emerging and versatile sports and activities by venturing into the thriving Esports industry in India through kit partnerships with organizations such as Revenant Esports and Orangutan Esports.

by Abhishek Shukla

Rajasthan Royals rope in Poornima University as Official University Partner

Jaipur (Rajasthan), 16 February 2024: Royals Sports Group-owned franchise Rajasthan Royals on Friday announced Poornima University as its Official University Partner for the upcoming season. As part of the partnership, the University’s logo will feature on the back of the caps and helmets of the Royals’ players, with a host of on-ground activations also planned at the University’s campus in Jaipur.

This collaboration acts as a significant milestone for both institutions, it brings together their shared commitment towards excellence in education and sports. As the Official University Partner of the Rajasthan Royals, Poornima University aims to enhance the academic and athletic experiences of students and fans alike on an international forum. Through this partnership, Poornima University will leverage its expertise in higher education to offer unique opportunities for learning, skill development, and engagement with cricket enthusiasts across the globe.

Rahul Singhi, Co-Founder of Poornima University, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with Rajasthan Royals, a team synonymous with passion, resilience, and excellence. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of empowering the next generation of leaders through holistic education and immersive experiences. Together, we will inspire students to pursue their dreams on and off the field.”

Jake Lush McCrum, Chief Executive Officer, Rajasthan Royals, shared his excitement for the partnership, remarking, “One of our fundamental pillars at the Royals is the local community, and through this association with Poornima University, we are aiming to provide our young and local fanbase with the opportunity to connect with the team and feel closer to their favourite players. Through this association, we intend to promote the importance of integrating sport within the education model. With a host of engaging activations planned for the coming season, we are looking forward to fostering deeper connections with the local students and also provide the University the opportunity to reach a national audience.”

The collaboration between Poornima University and Rajasthan Royals exemplifies the power of education and sports to unite communities and drive positive change. Through joint initiatives focused on student engagement, both institutions aim to inspire the next generation of leaders and cricket enthusiasts while focusing on the importance of their holistic development.

by Abhishek Shukla

TVS Eurogrip Comes on Board as Title Sponsor with JioCinema’s Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan

Mumbai, February 12, 2024: Viacom18 announced TVS Eurogrip as the title sponsor for Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan, JioCinema’s predict and win game that launched last year. With a rise in interactive fan engagement and continued free streaming of premier sporting action beyond IPL such as India cricket, TVS Eurogrip will be present the unique play and win along game to fans throughout the India – England series.

Introduced during the IPL in 2023, Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan emerged as a runaway success, with 50 million participants taking a shot at winning an array of exciting prizes, while 60 lucky contestants driving away a premium hatchback. Within just one season of IPL, Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan became a platform for heartwarming tales of changed fortunes from India’s heartlands.

The announcement of a title sponsor for Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan comes on the back of a sharp rise in gamification of content, a trend benchmarked in new ways by JioCinema with over a billion game plays last season of the IPL.

“Digital being a strong focus area for us, we see this partnership with Viacom18 on the TVS Eurogrip Tyres Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan contest as an exciting and engaging way to connect with our consumers – the new age, millennial and Gen Z riders,” said P Madhavan, EVP Sales and Marketing, TVS Srichakra Limited. “We look forward to more such meaningful associations in the future as well that will help us bring good brand experiences alive.”

“It is thrilling for us to have TVS Eurogrip partner with us on seeing a tremendous opportunity that lies ahead in gamifying content,” said a Viacom18 Spokesperson. “We worked systematically to remove barriers to affordability last IPL, that enabled its free streaming at large. This linked the gap between the masses and brands that are looking for ways to meaningfully gamify and incentivise their communications with their audiences at scale. We truly believe this is just the beginning and we will see more record numbers with TVS Eurogrip coming on board for Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan.”

As spectators become engrossed in the thrilling match-play, advertisers find themselves presented with an exclusive chance to generate excitement for their brands. With the prospect of display exposure in every over, Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan serves as a captivating platform for brands to engage with a broad audience. It becomes an avenue to enhance traffic to their landing page.

When a user receives a coupon, advertisers seize the opportunity to distribute discount coupons in abundance, creating a funnel of impressions, engagement, and redemption—all unfolding seamlessly while the match is in progress. This unique scenario unfolds rarely during live events, making it an exceptional opportunity for advertisers to make a significant impact.

Users will have an opportunity to win exciting prizes every match day of the five Test match series between India – England. Users can simply hold their phones in portrait mode, where a chat box opens at the bottom of the screen, presenting a question and four options before every over to unlock a plethora of prizes.

by Abhishek Shukla

DafaNews Bengaluru Open 2024 ropes in twelve notable sponsors

Bengaluru, February 10, 2024: DafaNews Bengaluru Open 2024, organized by the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA), has onboarded twelve gold sponsors who have pledged their support to elevate the stature of the tournament, set to take place at the KSLTA Stadium from February 12 to 18.

Led by real estate companies such as Prestige Group and Brigade Group, cable and broadband company ACT Fibernet, the country’s public sector banks Canara Bank and Bank of Baroda as well as conglomerates Hitachi and JSW Group have been roped in by the ATP 100 Challenger Event.

These sponsors aim to not only showcase their commitment to supporting sports but also to bolster community engagement.

Additionally, Ultratech Cement, Brigade Group, SKME, Baranj Coal Mines Pvt Ltd, Ramco Cement, Prestige Group, ACT Fibernet, and Suprada Constructions Pvt Ltd., have all joined as gold sponsors.

The collective involvement of these distinguished corporate and business companies will play a vital role in contributing to the growth of tennis in the city.

By leveraging the tournament’s prominence, the sponsors will be enhancing their visibility across diverse sports audiences nationwide.

Mr Maheshwar Rao IAS, Hon. Secretary KSLTA and Secretary, Organising Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with the prominent sponsors by saying, “We are delighted to welcome our valued sponsors for the DafaNews Bengaluru Open 2024. All our sponsors will play a pivotal role in increasing the prominence of this prestigious event and their support is integral to its success. With a shared vision for promoting tennis in the country, we look forward to delivering an exciting week of tennis in Bengaluru.”

While DafaNews will maintain its association as the title sponsor of the tournament, it will be joined by the Government of Karnataka’s Department of Tourism who will be continuing its role as the presenting sponsor.

Furthermore, Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Ltd will also retain its role as the platinum sponsor for this year.

Sumit Nagal will lead India’s challenge in the singles for the event. Nagal had knocked out world number 27 Alexander Bublik at the Australian Open in the main draw first round.In doubles, the country’s Davis Cuppers, including Ramkumar Ramanathan and N Sriram Balaji, who played a key role in India’s commanding win over Pakistan with their singles performances in Islamabad, will compete in the doubles event.

by Abhishek Shukla

World Athletics and Sony announce new sponsorship agreement

Three-year agreement includes the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 and leverages technology to create emotion-filled sports experiences


World Athletics and Sony Corporation (Sony) today (23) announced a new three-year agreement that will see Sony sponsor World Athletics Series events from 2024 to 2026.

As part of the sponsorship, Sony will support all World Athletics Series events starting from the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24 in March. The agreement will also include the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 to be held in Tokyo, Japan, in September 2025.

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the vision to “continue to deliver Kando and Anshin* to people and society across the world through the pursuit of technology and new challenges,” Sony Corporation supports the Sony Group with technology to create the entertainment of the future together with creators. 

Both parties came to this agreement based on a mutual understanding of each other’s philosophy.

Sony aims to work with creators and leverage the power of technology to generate emotion-filled experiences for sports fans across the globe and capture them on film and in photographs. 

Sony will further enhance emotion from athletes’ awe-inspiring achievements captured by content creators, including photographers, and deliver them to the world through cutting-edge technologies like the Alpha™ mirrorless interchangeable lens camera and versatile interchangeable lens including G Master™, system cameras and broadcast solutions.

In addition, Hawk-Eye Innovations, which has a proven track record of providing services for international events in a variety of sports, will contribute to fair competition management through its officiating services.

“We are entering an exciting few years for our sport and I can think of no better partner than Sony to help us capture the excitement, the thrill and the breathtaking performances our sport promises to bring,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. “As the No.1 Olympic sport, the eyes of the world will be squarely focused on athletics this year as our athletes compete across our five World Athletics Series events, plus Paris. 

“We look forward to the outstanding photographs Sony will capture at our events to immortalise these many moments in our sport’s history.”

Hiroki Totoki, President, COO and CFO of Sony Group Corporation, said: “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with World Athletics to sponsor their World Athletics Series events, which are known as the world’s top competitions in athletics. 

“Based on our purpose to ‘fill the world with emotion, through the power of creativity and technology’, Sony will contribute to the development of sports by leveraging technology to enhance the emotion generated by sports and deliver it to sports fans around the world.”

by Abhishek Shukla

FIBA and TCL to ‘Inspire Greatness’ with extension of Global Partnership for another four years

MIES (Switzerland) – FIBA and global leading tech brand TCL will continue their relationship as Global Partners for another four years after agreeing to build on their already highly successful collaboration.

Having partnered since 2018, TCL premium level branding has been showcased at all of FIBA’s major tournaments. This included last year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, where TCL played a crucial role in helping deliver FIBA’s biggest and most successful event in international basketball history. TCL also built commercial display booths in all three host countries of the World Cup and had Fan Cams for on-court activities in all 92 games.

Meanwhile, TCL has become synonymous with high performance and excellence through the ‘TCL Player of the Game’ award at FIBA events. Harnessing the power of brand exposure in FIBA’s leading competitions, this platform has accelerated TCL’s globalization and they have been able to use this to increase their influence, bringing the local markets benefits from both a sales and reputation perspective.

Both FIBA and TCL also delivered a Corporate Social Responsibility project together. The ‘Break and Believe’ initiative to boost the appeal of girls and women’s basketball was launched at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022 in Australia and has been an exciting part of FIBA’s renowned ‘Her World, Her Rules‘ project.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said: “FIBA and TCL enjoy a strong partnership that is now being extended to a third consecutive World Cup cycle. 

“TCL has not only become synonymous with some of the best player performances in FIBA competitions, but they have also shown a great appetite to support wider basketball campaigns. The highly active part they have played in promoting Women in Basketball, one of our strategic priorities, is the kind of added value that makes us particularly satisfied to be extending this agreement for another four years.”

Vice President of TCL Technology, Ms. Wei Xue, commented: “TCL is honored to extend this strategic cooperation with FIBA for the next four years. During the past six years in our partnership, through our successful collaboration together, we have experienced international events such as the FlBA Basketball World Cup and the FlBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, which have brought passion and joy to basketball fans worldwide.

“Working together with FIBA again, TCL aims to further accelerate its process of globalization through FIBA’s international exposure and activations, improving TCL’s global brand influence. Let’s continue to inspire greatness.”

This agreement was brokered by FIBA Marketing, the strategic partnership between FIBA and Infront

by Abhishek Shukla

Ultimate Kho Kho ropes in IndianOil as Powered By Sponsor for Season 2

Odisha, January 11, 2024: Ultimate Kho Kho, India’s first-ever professional Kho Kho league, has onboarded IndianOil, the country’s leading diversified, integrated energy major as the Powered By Sponsor for its ongoing Season 2. Aligning with Ultimate Kho Kho’s vision of bringing a modern twist to the traditional sport, this partnership solidifies the league’s commitment to shaping the future of Kho Kho in India.

Having recently secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group after successfully raising its valuation, Ultimate Kho Kho became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment to grow the trajectory of Kho-Kho in India and globally.

Their partnership with IndianOil is set to unfold through an extensive marketing campaign, encompassing digital and on-ground activations. This collaborative effort will showcase player engagements, social media promotions, and fan-centric initiatives, all geared toward amplifying the league’s reach and influence throughout the nation.

Reflecting on the strategic association, Mr. Tenzing Niyogi, CEO and League Commissioner of Ultimate Kho Kho commented, “We are thrilled to welcome IndianOil as our Powered By Sponsor to elevate the stature of Kho Kho in India. Ultimate Kho Kho was conceived with the vision of not only reviving the rich heritage of Kho Kho but to propel it into a new era of dynamism, and entertainment. Our commitment to making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat aligns perfectly with IndianOil’s dedication to leaving a lasting legacy on the Indian sporting landscape.  We are confident that this partnership will act as a catalyst for the growth of Kho Kho in India.”

With a presence in almost all the streams of oil, gas, petrochemicals, and alternative energy sources in the country, IndianOil stands as the nation’s highest-ranked Energy-PSU in the Fortune 500 of 2023.

As part of their association with Ultimate Kho Kho, IndianOil will secure the naming rights for the post-match award, recognizing the ‘Attacker of the Match.’ Additionally, IndianOil will also have the naming rights to the league’s exciting powerplay segment, which was dominated by Chennai Quick Guns’ stalwart all-rounder Ramji Kashyap who accumulated a total of 24 skydive points this season.

According to a YouGov Report, the first season of Ultimate Kho Kho reached a massive audience of 164 million across various media touchpoints, emerging among the top 3 non-cricket leagues in India.

 Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, the ongoing season 2 of Ultimate Kho Kho will witness high-octane action between the top four teams – Chennai Quick Guns, Odisha Juggernauts, Gujarat Giants and Telugu Yoddhas during its semi-finals which are scheduled to be played on January 11, 2024.


The exciting action from Season 2 is broadcast live on Sony Sports Network’s channels and live-streamed on Sony LIV daily at 7 PM onwards.

by Abhishek Shukla

CAF and Orange renew Partnership reinforcing shared commitment to football development, equality and inclusion in Africa

The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) and Orange have renewed their long-standing Partnership, reinforcing their shared commitment to football development, equality and inclusion in Africa.

Orange has been an exclusive telecommunications partner for CAF since 2008.

The scope of the renewed Partnership between CAF and Orange includes CAF’s most anticipated tournaments namely the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024 and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

The new Partnership has been amended to enable Orange to focus its commitments on delivering connectivity, equality and inclusivity. Central to the Group’s sponsorship strategy is how Orange will leverage the power that sport has to connect customers and fans across Africa and the Middle East, evident in three key areas: Gender equality, Inclusion and Orange Tous Connectés.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “Orange has been a great supporter and partner of African Football for many years. We are excited to continue working together with Orange to make African Football amongst the best in the world and self-supporting. The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire is expected to be watched by over 800 million people and we are delighted that Orange is our partner for this Competition and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Our Partnership with Orange will also support the development and growth of Women’s football on the African Continent.”

Jérôme Henique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa comments: “Orange is a long-term and loyal partner of football in Africa and the Middle East. Our commitment to African football spans more than 20 years, and we’re proud to host over 40 football partnerships in countries across the region, including national teams as well as numerous various youth, academy and university programmes across several countries. We’re delighted to continue this important work with CAF to co-create and drive real change through common objectives.”

The partnership between CAF and Orange rest on three pillars namely:

  • Gender equality: Orange has committed to delivering 50/50 representation across Orange’s sponsorship portfolio, promoting equal access and opportunity. This builds on our active partnership of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and specific programmes since 2018.
  • Inclusion: by leveraging the footprint of Orange Digital Centers, Orange is dedicated to engaging, educating and connecting young people. Through this partnership with CAF, Orange will develop dedicated programmes to support young players to develop their digital skills and training. For example, Orange aims to teach coding skills to youth by using football content and challenges to inspire them. From simple football games to tournament stats, we can use the sport they love to engage them in coding while building valuable digital skills.
  • Orange Tous Connectés: Orange Tous Connectés is a platform which will ensure that Orange customers benefit from seamless service continuity and connectivity to enjoy, share and participate in the sport they love.
by Abhishek Shukla

U Mumba secures eight sponsors with a 60% increase valuation in PKL Season 10

Mumbai, December 27, 2023: U Mumba, backed by eight brands, has garnered maximum sponsorship with a valuation increase of 60% in the latest edition of the Pro Kabaddi League. Amassing these sponsorships is a testament to the growing stature of Brand U Mumba and the strong appeal and vision that the Mumbai team has in Kabaddi across India.

U Mumba had signed top sports news portal Melbat Live as its Title Partner and has partnered with Macho Hint as its powered by Partner, a millennial and Gen Z-focused brand in the innerwear category which is a sub-brand category from the stables of renowned brand, Macho.

For the Associate Partner category, U-Mumba has onboarded six brands led by Rajdhani Besan, pioneers in producing agro-food products in India, along with pioneering construction firm Je & Vee Infrastructures, and internationally acclaimed beauty, skincare, personal care, and cosmetic products manufacturer Vi John.

Great White Electricals, innovators in the home electrics space, the Indian Public Sector Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, and the well-renowned footwear brand, Abros Shoes are all also donning the Mumbai colours in Season 10.

Suhail Chandok, CEO of U Mumba commenting on the team’s high marketability, said, “We are thrilled to welcome some new distinguished partners & the return of a couple too, to the U Mumba family. United by a shared vision of the brand’s identity, values, offerings, and success, we are confident that we will be able to elevate and inspire brand loyalty for U Mumba to new heights. We have a strong vision in place for the growth we want to see for our team and the trust placed in us by these esteemed brands is a testament to the value we have meticulously built over the years, showcasing the power of brand recognition. Our Indian sport of Kabaddi has truly taken the world by storm and continues to be a trusted vehicle for brands that need a targeted platform to reach a massive consumer base that is pan-India.”

U-Mumba has also forged collaborations with 92.7 Big FM; Nivia, a noteworthy homegrown sports brand; Swades Foundation, a premier NGO in Mumbai; Fast&Up, a foremost nutrition provider and Baller Athletik, India’s pioneer in energy-enhancing transformative clothing as promoting partners for the season.

According to the ‘India Sports Sponsorship Report 2023’ by GroupM, Sports Sponsorship in India recorded a figure of INR 5907 Cr ($Mn 748) in 2022 with a growth of 105%. Emerging sports witnessed an overall revenue of INR 1503 Cr ($Mn 190), which in YoY terms represents an incremental value of INR 829 Cr ($Mn 104).

U Mumba is set to take on Telugu Titans next in their Pro Kabaddi League match in Noida on the 30th of December before the Pro Kabaddi caravan moves to Mumbai for U Mumba’s Home leg starting on the 5th of January.

 Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India stats showed the opening weekend of PKL Season 10 alone witnessed 80.1 million viewers, clocking a 32% increase from the 2022 season, with consumption increasing by 27% to 2.7 billion minutes over just the first 4 matches.

by Abhishek Shukla

UKK: Punit Balan Group owned Mumbai Khiladis onboard 5 major brands

New Delhi, December 26, 2023: Mumbai Khiladis, the powerhouse team owned by Punit Balan Group (PBG), has roped in five major sponsors for the ongoing Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2. With this major brand handshake, the franchise has garnered a combined sponsorship amount exceeding INR 8.30 Crores which reflects the growing popularity and commercial appeal of indigenous sports such as Kho Kho in India.

Mumbai Khiladis will witness a prominent sports news portal, 1XBat join as the Title Sponsor for the team and the logo will prominently feature on the front of their jersey.

Mylab Discovery Solutions Pvt Ltd, a leading dynamic biotechnology company based out of Pune has come on board as the Powered by Sponsor and will be featured on the back of the team’s jersey.

Generic Engineering Construction and Projects Limited, a BSE and NSE-listed prominent construction company and pharmaceutical distribution company, Pharm Deal, Pune will act as the team’s associate sponsors, their logos will feature on the jersey sleeves. Additionally, the well-renowned private aviation company, Jet Fleet Aviation, has also joined forces with the team as an associate sponsor, with its branding being positioned at the nape of the neck.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the enormous sponsorship that Mumbai Khiladis have secured with a record-breaking value, Punit Balan, Chairman & Managing Director of the PBG stated, “The significant sponsorship that we have secured is a testament to the meteoric rise as well as the interest that non-cricketing sports in this country are generating. Moreover, it also highlights the burgeoning and untapped potential that traditional games like Kho Kho have. Ultimate Kho Kho has been able to propel this homegrown sport to becoming a mainstream sports league and among the top three in India by engaging with a target audience cutting across the hinterland as well as urban India. We are confident this is just the beginning and Mumbai Khiladis will be a flag bearer in promoting the sport and being a catalyst in its continued growth not just in India but globally.”

Showcasing its commitment to the development of sports in the country, the Punit Balan Group (PBG) has already invested in nine sporting leagues across India and globally. They also support nearly 60 budding sports talents pan India. The sponsorship amount received by Mumbai Khiladis marks a significant milestone not just for the team but also for the league, Ultimate Kho Kho, which is just in its second season and sets a new standard for indigenous sports leagues in India.

“The Punit Balan Group has always believed that investing in non-cricketing sports is the key to sustainability, and our values closely align with those of our sponsors. With a shared vision to uplift indigenous sports, we are dedicated to contributing toward creating a sustainable ecosystem for non-cricketing sports to prosper in India,” added Punit Balan.

According to the ‘India Sports Sponsorship Report 2023’ by GroupM, Sports Sponsorship in India recorded a figure of INR 5907 Cr ($Mn 748) in 2022 with a growth of 105%. Emerging sports witnessed an overall revenue of INR 1503 Cr ($Mn 190), which in YoY terms represents an incremental value of INR 829 Cr ($Mn 104).

Mumbai Khiladis, comprising standout talents including Captain Aniket Pote, defender Pritam Chougule and all-rounder Subhasis Santra, will face the Gujarat Giants in their second match of the season today on December 26.

 Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 is taking place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha with live coverage on Sony Sports Network’s channels and live streaming on Sony LIV daily at 7 PM onwards.

by Abhishek Shukla

Coca-Cola extends partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for eight years

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Coca-Cola are thrilled to announce an eight-year global partnership encompassing ICC World events across all three formats, up until the end of 2031. 

The official signing ceremony which took place at ICC’s Headquarters marked a historic milestone for the partnership and demonstrated Coca-Cola’s commitment to sports. This eight-year partnership as a Global Partner of the ICC, confirmed the collaboration as one of the longest ever associations formed by the ICC with a single brand, spanning a total timeline of 13 years (2019 – 2031). 

The relationship will see The Coca-Cola Company’s brands becoming exclusive non-alcoholic beverage partners. The agreement includes all men’s and women’s events at the pinnacle of the sport including the ICC Cricket World Cups, ICC T20 World Cups and ICC Champions Trophies through to the end of 2031. During the course of the partnership, there will be both a major international men’s and women’s event every year as well as a World Test Championship Final every two years.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya said: “I am thrilled to welcome back The Coca-Cola Company as an ICC Global Partner as we enter a landmark eight-year partnership, which unites one of the world’s leading brands with the second largest sport in the world. This long-term collaboration ushers in a new commercial era, filled with exciting prospects for the sport. With the Men’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, and the Women’s edition in Bangladesh just around the corner, we’re poised for unprecedented global growth and engagement. This partnership not only celebrates our sport’s expansion but also promises innovative opportunities to enhance our fans’ experience worldwide.”

Bradford Ross, Vice President of Global Assets, Influencers, and Partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company, stated, “In alignment with our rich history of global sports partnerships, the collaboration with ICC reinforces our commitment to refreshing sports fans and elevating their entertainment experiences. Sports holds immense power to unite people, and this partnership provides us with a unique opportunity to blend our brand affinity with the fervor for the world’s cricketing game. We endeavor to continue to delight consumers with our diverse portfolio and create unique experiences for fans.” 

During the recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023, Thums Up and Limca Sportz were the exclusive beverage and sports drink partners, activating a host of online and offline fan engagement activations. Additionally, Sprite took center stage with its captivating ‘Thand rakh’ campaign, aimed at elevating and sustaining the enthusiasm of cricket fans throughout the biggest World Cup ever.

by Steve Murphy PL

Sir Jim Ratcliffe Acquires Significant Stake in Manchester United, Commits $300 Million for Club Development

Manchester, UK – In a landmark transaction reshaping the ownership landscape of English football, Manchester United plc announced today a definitive agreement with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS, for acquiring a substantial shareholding in the iconic football club. The deal, which has been eagerly anticipated by fans and market analysts alike, will see Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquire up to 25% of Manchester United’s Class B and Class A shares.

The acquisition, valued at $33.00 per share, involves the purchase of 25% of the Class B shares currently held by the Glazer family and an offer to acquire up to 25% of all Class A shares. This move represents a significant shift in the club’s ownership structure, historically dominated by the Glazer family since their takeover in 2005.

In addition to the share acquisition, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has committed a further $300 million investment into the club. This investment is earmarked for the redevelopment of the club’s infrastructure, particularly Old Trafford, enhancing the stadium’s facilities to match global standards. The investment plan includes an initial payment of $200 million upon the transaction’s closure, followed by an additional $100 million by the end of 2024.

A significant aspect of this agreement is the delegation of management responsibility for football operations to INEOS. This move is expected to bring a fresh perspective and professional approach to the club’s men’s and women’s football operations, including the academies. INEOS’s track record in sports management, particularly with their investments in Formula 1 (INEOS Grenadiers) and sailing (INEOS Team UK), has been a key factor in this decision.

The joint ambition of Manchester United and INEOS is to build a world-class football operation, leveraging the club’s already successful off-pitch performance. The Glazer family expressed their enthusiasm for this partnership, highlighting Sir Jim and INEOS’s commercial experience and commitment to success at all levels of the club’s operations.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a lifelong Manchester United supporter, emphasized his commitment to unlocking the club’s potential, which he believes has not been fully realized in recent times. His long-term vision includes integrating global knowledge and expertise from INEOS Sport to drive improvement across the club, aligning with the aspirations of fans and stakeholders to see Manchester United return to the pinnacle of English, European, and world football.

This transaction is subject to receiving all necessary regulatory approvals, including from the Premier League. All parties involved are hopeful for a swift completion process.

Under the terms of the transaction, Trawlers Limited, a company wholly owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, will be responsible for the funding of the acquisition and investment, without any debt financing involved. The approval of Manchester United plc’s Board of Directors and a recommendation for shareholders to tender their shares in the offer have been secured.

The agreement also necessitates an amendment to the Articles of Association of Manchester United plc to permit the transfer of Class B shares. This transaction is a major step in Manchester United’s strategic review announced in November 2022, aimed at enhancing the club’s performance on and off the pitch.

As the football world watches closely, this transaction could mark the beginning of a new era for Manchester United, combining the club’s rich heritage with modern sports management and substantial financial backing to regain its status as a leading force in global football.

by Abhishek Shukla

Football Icon Sunil Chhetri Teams Up with Acer India for ‘Score with Sunil’ Gaming Contest

Bangalore, 22 December 2023: Acer India introduces an exciting gaming competition in collaboration with football legend Sunil Chhetri, titled “Score with Sunil.” This engaging campaign invites gamers to dive into the world of football through a unique gaming experience available on the Google Play Store starting December 24, 2023. Participants can download the “Score with Sunil” game and exhibit their skills in penalty shootouts, competing to score as many goals as possible within a set time frame.

Gamers can download and install the game or play as Sunil Chhetri in any football game featuring Bangalore FC or Team India. Participants are encouraged to record their gameplay and share it on their Instagram stories, tagging Acer India and using the hashtags #AcerScoreWithSunil and #AcerIndiaContest.

Top performers in the competition will receive exciting prizes. The player in the 1st place on the exclusive game’s leaderboard will get an Acer gaming laptop, while the 2nd place will receive Acer Accessories. Those who ranked from 3rd to 10th will be rewarded with Acer Merchandise. In addition, Acer India and Sunil Chhetri will choose the top goals, and the winners will be presented with an Acer Laptop.

Commenting on the collaboration, Sooraj Balakrishnan, Head of Marketing, Acer India, said “We are excited about the collaboration with India Football Captain Sunil Chhetri for the ‘Score with Sunil” contest. This initiative offers a fun gaming experience for football enthusiasts and reflects our dedication to connecting with our audience through innovative methods. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the gaming community’s enthusiasm and skills showcased in this thrilling contest.”

“Score with Sunil” Contest and “Goal Master Challenge” have specific rules and conditions for participants. To be eligible, participants must be 18 years or above and residents of the Indian Subcontinent. Only one registration per user is allowed, using the first mobile number. Social media shares should be free of profanity, and fair play is crucial. Any use of scripts or hacks will result in disqualification. Also, Non-compliance may lead to disqualification by Acer India. To enter, players need to download the Acer Score with Sunil Game, register, and accumulate goals on the leaderboard for a chance to win exciting prizes, including Acer Gaming Laptops, Accessories, and Merchandise.

by Abhishek Shukla

Iga Świątek Tops Forbes’ 2023 List of Highest-Paid Female Athletes

Breaking New Ground in Women’s Sports
In a significant development in women’s sports, 22-year-old Polish tennis star Iga Świątek has been named the highest-paid female athlete of 2023 by Forbes. With estimated earnings of $23.9 million before taxes and agent fees, Świątek’s financial success marks a new era in the sports world. Her achievement is particularly notable as she becomes only the fourth tennis player to lead the Forbes list since its inception in 2008, joining the ranks of Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Naomi Osaka.

Świątek’s Stellar Season and Endorsement Success
Świątek’s remarkable financial accomplishment stems from her exceptional performance in the last season, where she secured six titles, including a third Roland Garros crown. She was the WTA’s top earner, bagging $9,857,686 in prize money. Equally impressive is her success off the court, where she matched her on-court earnings through endorsements and partnerships. Notable among her brand deals are global ambassador roles for VISA and multinational IT company Infosys, as well as partnerships with clothing sponsor On and Oshee sports drink.

Dominance of Tennis Players in the Top Earnings
The Forbes list for 2023 is dominated by female tennis players, with nine out of the top ten earners coming from the sport. Following Świątek is 20-year-old Chinese freestyle skier Eileen Gu, who earned $22.1 million, largely from off-field activities. Coco Gauff, the American tennis sensation, ranks third with earnings of $21.7 million. Other notable tennis players in the top ten include Emma Raducanu, Naomi Osaka, Aryna Sabalenka, Jessica Pegula, Venus Williams, Elena Rybakina, and Leylah Fernandez.

AthleteSportNationalityAgeOn-Field EarningsOff-Field Earnings
Iga ŚwiątekTennisPolish22$9.9M$14M
Eileen GuFreestyle SkiingChinese20$0.1M$22M
Coco GauffTennisAmerican20$6.7M$15M
Emma RaducanuTennisBritish21$0.2M$15M
Naomi OsakaTennisJapanese26$0$15M
Aryna SabalenkaTennisBelarusian25$8.2M$6.5M
Jessica PegulaTennisAmerican29$6M$6.5M
Venus WilliamsTennisAmerican43$0.2M$12M
Elena RybakinaTennisKazakh24$5.5M$4M
Leylah FernandezTennisCanadian21$1.8M$7M

The Rise of Emma Raducanu and Naomi Osaka’s Continued Success
British tennis star Emma Raducanu, who had to undergo surgeries in April 2023, has become one of the most marketable athletes globally. Despite limited playtime, her brand value soared, bringing in $15 million from endorsements. Naomi Osaka, not actively competing last season due to maternity leave, also maintained her financial stature with similar off-court income. The presence of these athletes in the top rankings underscores the growing marketability and financial viability of women in sports.

A New Chapter in Women’s Sports
Iga Świątek’s ascent to the top of the Forbes list is not just a personal triumph but a landmark moment in women’s sports. It highlights the increasing financial rewards and recognition for female athletes, driven by their outstanding performances and growing global appeal. As the landscape of sports continues to evolve, these achievements signal a promising future for women in athletics, where talent and hard work translate into substantial financial and professional success.

by Abhishek Shukla

Airlink Soars High as the Official Airline Partner of the Paarl Royals

National, 15 December 2023: Royals Sports Group-owned franchise, Paarl Royals, today announced a soaring partnership with Airlink, naming the airline as the Official Airline Partner of the team for the upcoming 2024 season of the SA20.

As a team that consistently strives for excellence both on and off the field, Paarl Royals is delighted to align with Airlink, Southern Africa’s leading regional airline with a strong commitment to service, reliability, and connecting communities.

The partnership between Paarl Royals and Airlink signifies a shared commitment to excellence, a passion for the sport, and a dedication to fostering growth within the local community. With Airlink on board as the Official Airline Partner, Paarl Royals aims to soar to new heights, both in terms of on-field performance and community engagement, by connecting fans and supporters across South Africa.

The association is not limited to the cricket field, as both entities plan to engage in various promotional activities and digital campaigns. Fans can expect a unique blend of cricketing excitement and travel experiences throughout the season.

Alok Chitre, Chief Business Officer, Paarl Royals, welcomed Airlink to the Royals Family, “As a team, we are always looking for partners who share our values and commitment to excellence. Airlink’s reputation for reliability, professionalism, and community engagement aligns perfectly with our vision for the Paarl Royals. With Airlink by our side, we look forward to a successful partnership that not only enhances our team’s performances but also contributes to the overall growth of cricket in the region.”

Airlink, renowned for its commitment to quality service and extensive regional connectivity, is the team’s official carrier for the tournament and will fly the squad and support staff between their matches taking place in Paarl, Centurion, Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).. The collaboration aims to enhance the overall fan experience and strengthen the team’s presence in Southern Africa.

“As Southern Africa’s premier airline, Airlink provides service fit for royalty with comfortable seats, complimentary in-flight beverages and meals, and – as cricketing nobility will appreciate – our free and generous sporting equipment allowance,” said Airlink CEO and Managing Director, Rodger Foster.

The SA20 2024 season is scheduled to kick off on 10 January, with the Paarl Royals commencing their campaign against the Pretoria Capitals at Boland Park on 12 January 2024.

by Abhishek Shukla

FIBA strategic partnership with Genius Sports to deliver next-gen AI-powered technology for Leagues and National Federations through 2035

LONDON/MIES (UK/Switzerland) – FIBA, the world governing body of basketball, has expanded its long-term partnership with Genius Sports Limited (“Genius Sports”) (NYSE:GENI) to deliver its revolutionary computer vision technology and AI-powered capabilities to Leagues and National Federations around the world from 2025 to 2035.

This new technology will transform the entire data and video ecosystem of international basketball, providing a unified, connected solution to automate and synchronize the collection of live game statistics and video production with advanced player tracking. Genius Sports’ optical system has been trained to read and understand live game plays and predict outcomes in real-time, turning raw live data and video into valuable, actionable game insights.

For the first time ever, Leagues and National Federations will have access to an AI-powered automated player tracking system. This advanced technology will also provide users access to a suite of cutting-edge coaching tools and analytics, automated officiating, and broadcast augmentation tools.

Since 2004, Genius Sports and FIBA have provided over 200 Leagues and National Federations worldwide with both FIBA LiveStats and FIBA Organizer, helping to collect official play-by-play statistics and drive digital transformation at all levels. To date, FIBA LiveStats has captured full box score data from over a million basketball games as both products continue their availability to the FIBA Family.

Also, under the terms of the new agreement, Genius Sports has been selected as FIBA’s Official Data & Video Capture and Production Partner as well as the governing body’s Official Innovation & Technology Services Partner from 2025 for a 10-year term.

“For almost 20 years, FIBA and Genius Sports have joined forces in developing the most innovative tools for Leagues and National Federations across all levels of basketball,” said FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. “Through this automated solution, our objective is to assist National Federations and Leagues to increase their reach and revenue and at the same time, reduce costs. We’re delighted to expand our partnership with Genius Sports to achieve this goal and equip the FIBA Family with first access to this cutting-edge technology in basketball.”

“We’re thrilled to expand our landmark partnership with FIBA, equipping Leagues and National Federations with state-of-the-art technology to transform how their fans, coaches, officials, broadcasters and sponsors interact with live data and video,” said Mark Locke, CEO at Genius Sports. “Powered by our unique AI-driven system, Leagues and National Federations at all levels of basketball will be able to automate data and video collection and utilize the highest quality player and team tracking data.”

by Abhishek Shukla

BCCI Opens Bidding for IPL Title Sponsorship for 2024-2028 Seasons

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the Invitation to Tender (ITT) for acquiring the Title Sponsor Rights for the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the seasons spanning 2024 to 2028. This announcement marks a significant step for one of the most lucrative and popular cricket leagues in the world.

The Governing Council of the IPL is looking for bids from reputed entities interested in securing these rights. This opportunity is a major draw for corporations looking to associate their brand with the globally recognized cricketing event. The ITT document, containing detailed terms, conditions, eligibility requirements, and bid submission processes, is accessible upon the payment of a non-refundable fee of INR 5,00,000 (Five Lakh Indian Rupees), plus any applicable Goods and Services Tax.

Entities interested in bidding for the title sponsorship must email the BCCI at ipltitlesponsor2023.itt@bcci.tv with details of the ITT fee payment as outlined in Annexure A of the notice. The ITT will be available for purchase until January 8, 2024, but simply purchasing the document does not automatically qualify an entity to bid.

The BCCI has emphasized that eligibility for bidding is contingent upon meeting the criteria set out in the ITT. Moreover, certain brand categories, detailed in Annexure B of the tender document, are restricted from bidding. The highest bid submitted will also be subject to Tata Sons Private Limited’s ‘Right to Match’ (RTM), as detailed in Annexure C.

This process presents a unique opportunity for brands to be prominently associated with the IPL, a league that has consistently attracted massive viewership and fan engagement both in India and internationally. The IPL has been a game-changer in the world of cricket, known for its high-octane matches, international player participation, and significant impact on the global cricketing calendar.

The BCCI, however, reserves the right to amend or cancel the bidding process at any stage without prior notice or explanation. This move by the BCCI is expected to generate considerable interest among major corporate entities, setting the stage for a competitive bidding process.

With the IPL’s growing global footprint, the title sponsorship rights are not just a significant revenue stream for the BCCI but also a golden opportunity for the winning bidder to enhance its brand visibility on an international scale. This announcement is eagerly awaited by cricket enthusiasts and the business community alike, as it opens a new chapter in the commercial aspects of cricket in India.

by Abhishek Shukla

Rajasthan Royals onboard Curefoods as an Official Partner

National, 07 December 2023: Royals Sports Group-owned franchise Rajasthan Royals today announced an expansive digital-first partnership with Curefoods, a leading house of F&B brands in India and a player in the healthy food industry. Curefoods will become the Official Partner of the Royals, marking the initiation of a strategic collaboration set to redefine fan and consumer engagement during the 2024 season.
Curefoods, known for its commitment to promoting healthy living, aligns seamlessly with Rajasthan Royals’ holistic well-being ethos. The partnership aims to inspire fans to adopt healthier lifestyles and make informed choices, not only in terms of diet but also in physical activity.
This unique partnership brings together the inaugural league champions Rajasthan Royals who are driven by the use of technology and innovation to produce cricketing excellence, and Curefoods who are dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle through their diverse portfolio of nutritious and delightful food brands. Leveraging the strong foothold of the Royals’ social media platforms, the collaboration is designed to introduce a series of digitally driven initiatives that will captivate fans on a new level, both within and beyond the cricketing arena.
Jake Lush McCrum, Chief Executive Officer, Rajasthan Royals, shared his thoughts on the partnership, stating, “We are excited to announce this unique partnership with Curefoods which will unlock the power of digital platforms and help us connect with our fans and their consumers at a deeper level. This digital-first partnership will create customer delight at scale through unique experiences for our fans by leveraging our shared values of innovation and technology.”
Ankit Nagori, Founder, Curefoods, also commented on the exciting collaboration, “We are thrilled to be associating with Rajasthan Royals for the 2024 season. With this association, we want to promote the importance of healthy eating using the brilliant platform which Rajasthan Royals provides. This partnership will help us reach out to millions of potential consumers who are looking to start their health journey.”
The partnership will see Rajasthan Royals and Curefoods collaborate on a multitude of initiatives, including exclusive digital content, interactive fan experiences, and wellness campaigns. The two brands will leverage technology and digital platforms to connect with fans in innovative ways, enhancing overall fan engagement during the 2024 season.
Fans can anticipate an exhilarating season ahead as Rajasthan Royals and Curefoods embark on this groundbreaking journey together, ushering in a new era in cricket partnerships.

by Abhishek Shukla

MPL Sports unveils fan-inspired official Team India jersey for the upcoming T20 World cup

MPL Sports, the official kit sponsor of the Indian Men’s, Women’s, and Under-19 Cricket Team, today unveiled the official jersey of the Indian team for 2021. The cheers of the billion-plus fans of the team at home and abroad provide inspiration for the jersey that the players will don at the upcoming T20 cup.

This is the first time in the history of Indian cricket that fans have been memorialised on a jersey. It carries their chants and cheers from iconic past matches, transformed into unique soundwave patterns. As much as the shirt, aptly called the “Billion Cheers Jersey,” honours their unwavering support, it also serves as a beacon of inspiration and encouragement for Team India to give their best on the field. The jersey comes in shades of prussian blue and royal blue offering a bold and distinct look befitting champions.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chennaiyin FC onboard BatBall11 as Associate Sponsor

Chennai, October 8, 2021: Two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions Chennaiyin FC are delighted to welcome on board fantasy sports platform BatBall11 as an Associate Sponsor for the upcoming season of the Hero Indian Super League.
This is BatBall11’s first partnership with a major sports franchise. BatBall11 will look to reach out to Chennaiyin FC’s passionate fan base and communicate with them through various assets that the club will offer to the brand, through the season. BatBall11 allows users to engage with sports like football, cricket and kabaddi.
Welcoming BatBall11 on board, Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said: “I’m pleased to welcome BatBall11 on board the Chennaiyin FC family. We are pleased to be working together with the team at BatBall11 to create interesting engagement avenues for fans of Chennaiyin FC.”
“We are extremely excited to join hands with Chennaiyin FC for the upcoming ISL season. We at Batball11 are committed to providing our users with an astounding experience, and believe that this association will help us connect with Chennaiyin FC’s passionate and loyal fan base. We look forward to a successful collaboration and wish the team the very best for the season ahead,” said Darshan P Parmar, Director of BatBall11 on the association with CFC.
The BatBall11 logo will find its place on the top half of the right sleeve of Chennaiyin FC’s match and training kits in the eighth edition of the ISL that kicks off in Goa this November.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chennaiyin FC extend partnership with SSVM Institutions as the club’s associate sponsor for a third consecutive year

Chennai, September 25, 2021: Chennaiyin FC have renewed their association with Shree Sarasswathi Vidhyaah Mandheer (SSVM) Institutions as the club’s associate sponsor for a third consecutive year.

SSVM’s partnership with Chennaiyin FC began before the 2019-20 Indian Super League (ISL) season, allowing the two-time champions to take the beautiful game beyond Chennai and into other parts of Tamil Nadu, such as Coimbatore and Mettupalayam.

Commenting on the association with one of India’s premier educational organisations, Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said, “SSVM Institutions are one of the finest education institutions in the country and we at Chennaiyin FC are proud to have them as a part of the family for the third consecutive year. This association has grown stronger with each passing year and we are confident of a strong showing in the upcoming season, along with our partners SSVM.”

SSVM’s emphasis on sports as part of its curriculum and Chennaiyin FC’s massive fan base will not only ensure a strong partnership but also help create interest for the sport among the youth.

Reiterating the importance of associating with Chennaiyin FC, Dr Manimekalai Mohan, Managing Trustee of SSVM Institutions at Coimbatore said: “SSVM Institutions is delighted to be partnering with Chennaiyin FC for the third consecutive year. We are now one family as the association has grown stronger with each passing season. We look forward to more successful years for Chennaiyin FC, and we hope to support the club on all fronts.”

It is Chennaiyin FC’s endeavour to take football to every town and district of the state, and the partnership with SSVM, which has a very strong educational presence in Tamil Nadu, had always been a step in that direction.

by Abhishek Shukla

Optimum Nutrition (ON), the world’s leading sports nutrition brand, names Rishabh Pant as their brand athlete

National, 24th September 2021: The World’s #1 selling Sports Protein Powder brand, Optimum Nutrition, has partnered with ace cricketer Rishabh Pant to provide him with all his sports nutrition supplement needs. The Most Trusted and awarded brand, Optimum Nutrition is part of Glanbia Performance Nutrition and has been helping athletes to achieve their fitness goals for over 30 years.
Rishabh Pant has an undoubtedly vast fan following and appeal. Bringing him on board would further grow the awareness and trust across fitness enthusiasts for Optimum Nutrition products.
Speaking on the association, Rishabh Pant said, “I am excited to be part of Team Optimum Nutrition and sport their logo on my bat for my upcoming matches. Being a professional athlete, I am always on the move and constantly striving to improve my fitness and game. I am happy to be associated with this amazing global community of Optimum Nutrition athletes as they champion high quality and performance-oriented nutrition.’’
Satyavrat Pendharkar, Managing Director, Glanbia Performance Nutrition India Pvt Ltd. said, “It is an absolute privilege for us to have Rishabh Pant as our athlete on Team Optimum Nutrition, we are committed to supporting his nutritional needs throughout his training and keeping him fit and healthy. We are pleased to be a part of his journey and commitment towards the sport and look forward to have him as the face and voice to inspire our community which continues to grow.”
Through this partnership, the brand will be engaging all its products, which include Gold Standard 100% Whey – the world’s best-selling whey protein, Essential Amino Energy, and Serious Mass, while partnering with Pant. Optimum Nutrition has been the category leader and extremely popular globally and its popularity has been growing steadily in India as well. So much so that they started locally manufacturing the star products such as the Gold Standard, 100% Whey to meet the ever-increasing demand in the subcontinent. It is a huge feat for all of us as this is the very first time that Optimum Nutrition products are being manufactured outside of US and UK.  
Rishabh Pant is being exclusively managed by JSW Sports. Mustafa Ghouse, CEO, JSW Sports added, “We are delighted with this association of Rishabh Pant and Optimum Nutrition. Rishabh shares values of commitment to quality and fitness with Optimum Nutrition and having a global brand of their repute on board with him as nutrition experts, is of immense value to him.”
Rishabh Pant has so far represented India in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup (2016), the Twenty20 International (from 2017), and captained the Delhi Capitals of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Meanwhile, there is a continued rise in his popularity across the world. His immense success is poised to contribute to the brand’s success. With his quirkiness, zeal for excellence in the sport, and smart personality, he embodies the philosophy of Optimum Nutrition: To be the best in the country, while chasing finesse and perfection to leave a lasting impression!

by Abhishek Shukla

90+ My Tuition App Signs Batsman Rishabh Pant as Its National Brand Ambassador

India, September 24, 2021: Edtech start-up 90+ My Tuition App, announced that it has signed Indian wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant as its national brand ambassador. This association will build a strong brand resonance and top-of-the-mind recall for the start-up among its potential customers – students and parents. In continuance of his association with 90+, the textbook – oriented digital tuition app, Rishabh launched the CBSE syllabus all over India.
 
The partnership comes at an opportune time when the start-up is in a business expansion mode across key cities in India. Recently, the start-up has secured USD 5 million investment in a Series A round for market expansion, brand building, and new product development.
 
“We are thrilled to have Rishabh Pant on board. He is the rising star of cricket and personifies grit, determination, and hard work, qualities that we would like to inculcate in all the students using our app. Our association with Rishabh would enhance our brand’s awareness among millions of school-going young cricketers and our potential customers across the country. As cricket unites India, our CBSE syllabus launched by Rishabh will provide a unifying experience to the students on our App”, said Co-founder and CEO of 90+ My Tuition App, Smijay Gokuldasan.
 
“I look forward to my journey with 90+ My Tuition App. I love the products they have come up with for school students. I wish I had an app like 90+ My Tuition App during my school days. It would have made studying math and science so much more fun. With the launch of the CBSE syllabus, the learning curve of the students on the App will be further enriched”, said Rishabh Pant. 
 
90+ My Tuition app provides digital tuition to 8th-12th standard students of CBSE and State education boards. Learners get to learn concepts of Math and Science using animated content and can assess their learnings through self-verifiable evaluation tests available on the app. The app also helps parents track the progress of their child using the ‘Parents Corner’ feature available on the app. Students can download videos and play later without the use of the internet.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chennaiyin FC renew association with DafaNews for third consecutive year as one of its principal sponsors for the 2021-22 season

Chennai, September 23, 2021: Two-time Indian Super League (ISL) winners Chennaiyin FC (CFC) are thrilled to announce the continuation of the club’s partnership with DafaNews as one of its principal sponsors for the 2021-22 season.

A one-stop online sports news hub, DafaNews has been associated with CFC for the last two seasons.

Commenting on the club’s continued partnership with DafaNews, Vita Dani, co-owner, Chennaiyin FC, said: “DafaNews over the past two seasons have become a vital part of the CFC family. We look forward to having them back with us for a third consecutive year and are sure that it is a partnership that will bear fruit for both, the brand and Chennaiyin FC.”

As the partnership enters its third consecutive year, it is a testimony to the continued faith that both the brands share. The association also brings forth the strong trust and value for Chennaiyin FC and DafaNews.

“After a productive two seasons we’ve had with Chennaiyin FC, we’re happy to continue for a third consecutive year. We see great merit in continuing our association with brand CFC, in what will also be a new campaign under a new head coach and fresh set of players, played out in Goa,” said an official spokesman for DafaNews, on the news of continuing their association with CFC.

DafaNews, which has partnered with top football clubs across the globe, entered India’s premier football league in the 2019-20 season. The online sports news portal caters to the demands of sports aficionados by extensively reporting on Indian and global sports events.

Chasing the coveted ISL trophy for the third time, the Marina Machans will begin their campaign on November 23 against Hyderabad FC at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa as the upcoming ISL season will kick-start on November 19.

by Abhishek Shukla

Hero ISL partners Terra Virtua; first sports league in India to enter booming NFT market

The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) today announced a landmark partnership with London-based Terra Virtua Limited to launch its exclusive non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as digital collectibles ahead of the 2021-22 season.

The agreement sees ISL, the top division in Indian football, become the country’s first sports property to launch a digital collectibles series, leading the Indian sports industry in the fast-growing NFT market.

Terra Virtua is the world’s first fully immersive social, digital collectibles platform and is one of the world’s leading creators and marketplaces using blockchain technology. It currently offers themed digital collectibles across a range of popular movies, television shows and comic books. This partnership with the ISL is Terra Virtua’s first foray into the dynamic sports ecosystem.

Changing the face of fan engagement

Under the licensed partnership, Terra Virtua will create unique digital collectibles featuring the Indian Super League and all its 11 clubs. Since the ISL’s launch in 2014, the league’s many memorable moments, player cards, in-match highlights and more will be made available for fans to purchase and trade as interactive memorabilia through Terra Virtua’s unique marketplace.

Says Hoshedar Gundevia, ISL’s Head of Digital: “Digital collectibles have been one of the most talked about fan engagement avenues in 2021, and ISL being a young league would like to keep pace with the demands of India’s millennial and Gen Z audience segments.

“We are extremely excited to be working with Terra Virtua to remain at the forefront of the next wave of innovation around fan engagement. Digital collectibles offer innovative opportunities for the league and its clubs to connect with the growing Indian football market and attract newer audiences.”

Terra Virtua CEO and co-founder, Gary Bracey commented: “This is a big day for the future of Indian and international sport. The partnership signals a fundamental shift in the way sports fans will be able to engage with their favourite sports teams going forward, allowing them to collect and trade Interactive player merchandise and dynamic digital memorabilia with fellow fans.”

“The partnership also demonstrates strong, continued growth in the NFT market, reinforcing that digital collectibles are the future of fan merchandise and digital art.

Going green

The announcement comes fresh off the news that Terra Virtua recently switched its platform from the Ethereum blockchain to Polygon in a drive to be more sustainable. By making the change, the NFT pioneer has reduced its energy usage in minting NFTs by over 99%.

Sandeep Nailwal, COO & Co-founder at Polygon commented ‘We are really excited to be involved with Terra Virtua as they embark on their deal with the first mainstream Indian sports brand releasing NFTs. As an India-based company, we are huge fans of the ISL and look forward to seeing how Terra Virtua empower and immerse soccer fans with their digital collectibles.”

Information on the collectibles available will be announced ahead of the ISL tournament 2021, starting on 19th November 2021.